Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Misato takes Shinji, Toji and Kensuke to a naval convoy transporting Evangelion Unit-02 to Japan. Its pilot, Asuka Langley Soryu, quickly makes an impression through her confidence and contempt for the boys. The trip also reunites Misato with Ryoji Kaji, her former boyfriend, whose teasing makes the meeting uncomfortable. After hearing about Shinji's ability to synchronize without training, Asuka brings him to see her production-model Eva. An aquatic Angel attacks the fleet before their visit can continue. Determined to demonstrate her skill, she takes Shinji into Unit-02 with her and activates it, changing the control language when their shared cockpit creates difficulties.
Asuka leaps between ships to reach the Eva's power connection, but the Angel knocks Unit-02 into the water and swallows it. Its equipment is unsuitable for underwater combat, leaving the pilots trapped inside the creature's mouth. Misato orders two damaged battleships sunk into the Angel's path while Shinji and Asuka force its jaws apart together. The ships fire at close range, destroying the enemy and throwing the Eva clear. Kaji has already escaped the battle carrying another piece of cargo. He delivers an embryonic object to Gendo, who identifies it as Adam. The boys' hope that Asuka's difficult visit is over ends when she joins their class.